Mirror View of El Capitan, Yosemite 1870 - 1874

Carleton E. Watkins, a renowned photographer of the American West, captured the grandeur of Yosemite Valley in his 1870-1874 albumen print, "Mirror View of El Capitan, Yosemite." The image showcases the iconic El Capitan rock formation reflected in the still waters of the Merced River, creating a breathtaking mirror image. The composition highlights the natural beauty and scale of the landscape, showcasing Watkins' mastery of the art of landscape photography. This image is a testament to the power and beauty of the natural world and is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.